Tonight I'd like to write out a prayer. This was written by a teacher from my boarding school, Hampden DuBose Academy. Most of the teachers were maiden ladies who had dedicated their lives to serving the Lord at the Academy. They were outstanding women of God, totally devoted and hard working, under less than ideal circumstances at times. They didn't have the usual freedoms we enjoy, they were really locked into the system and confines of the school, but their freedom was in true service, born of their love for God. Inspiring.

Miss Evelyn Stone was the English teacher and a dorm supervisor. She also handled the school office as secretary. Amazing. She always looked as neat as a pin, the hair and dress of a real lady. I have no idea how she managed all of her responsibilities so gracefully. Rather than being the most popular teacher, I think Miss Stone was held in high esteem by the students; we had a healthy respect and admiration for her. You didn't mess with Miss Stone.

Most of the teachers have gone to Heaven, including Miss Stone, after 69 years of ministry at the Academy. The teachers were close friends with one another and it was agonizing for them to lose their best friends, one by one. I miss her. She penned these words in 1999, seven years before her death. The prayer was sent to the alumni upon her passing.

My Prayer, Lord,

When Thou seest that my work is done,
Let me not linger on with failing powers,
Wasting the weary hours;
A workless worker in a world of work.

But with a word just call me Home,
And I will come right gladly.
Yes,
Right gladly will I come. ~Evelyn Stone

Isn't that breathtaking? Somehow, her words touched me so. You know that something like this could only come from the heart of a woman who had walked with her Lord for many years. So many people have made a difference in my life, she was one of them.

KEM